Servitude

The best of servants are barely seen,
Rarely heard.
We quietly come and go
And are only noticed
When a mistake is made.
If we dare to be absent,
We are not missed –
Only the task we left unperformed.
They do not see us,
Look into our eyes,
Sense what we feel.
Eyes down
Quiet steps
Hushed voice –
Do not disturb the deserving.
For them is the dinner prepared.
In their honor is the party given.
We wish them good rest
As we turn down silken covers
(Mint on the pillow, the sweet life)
And slip up darkened stairs.

In our humble quarters
We turn down our own beds
And fall quickly to heavy sleep
Knowing not to expect a mint.